Xerostomia: Understanding causes and treatment options

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a pervasive and debilitating condition caused by autoimmune diseases or conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, infections, hormonal changes and toxicity from chemotherapy, head and neck radiotherapy or adverse effects of medications. Whether chronic or acute, xerostomia might inhibit speech, mastication and dental health, plus spur other negative outcomes.

Dentists need to be fully prepared to act on patients’ behalf to restore comfort and function to the highest extent possible, explained Dr. Linda Niessen, founding dean of the Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine and vice provost of Oral Health Affairs.

This white paper from ACT explores:

• The most frequently recognized causes of hyposalivation
• The essential role of salivation
• Keys to patient assessment
• Tactics to help patients
• The role of fluoride